sneaker

noun

sneak·​er ˈsnē-kər How to pronounce sneaker (audio)
Synonyms of sneakernext
1
: one that sneaks
2
: a sports shoe with a pliable rubber sole
sneakered adjective

Examples of sneaker in a Sentence

she's such a sneaker I wouldn't trust her any farther than I could throw her
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Every brand had its rendition, and their ubiquity was no accident—the best leather sneakers embody timelessness and add understated elegance to any outfit. Michael Stefanov, Robb Report, 18 May 2026 Add ballet sneakers, then coordinate your hat, bag, and lipstick to your water bottle or Gatorade for the same effect. Elizabeth Logan, Glamour, 18 May 2026 Sleek sneakers look cute when walking around town but also work in the gym, and my favorite Left On Friday bike shorts fold up super tiny in my suitcase. Abbey Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 18 May 2026 Hathaway recently wore Adidas Japan sneakers during her press tour for The Devil Wears Prada 2. Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 17 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for sneaker

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sneaker was in 1598

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sneaker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sneaker. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

sneaker

noun
sneak·​er ˈsnē-kər How to pronounce sneaker (audio)
1
: one that sneaks
2
: a sports shoe (as of canvas) with a rubber sole
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